Chihuahuas have earned themselves a reputation for being very hyper little dogs. No, not every single Chihuahua is necessarily hyper, but as a breed, Chihuahuas tend to pick one human to call their own and expect to be the center of their human’s world by any means necessary, including hyperactivity.
Beware of Chi
Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
Because they can be very jealous and possessive, Chihuahuas will often be indifferent or even downright mean to strangers. When a Chihuahua feels like he or his human is being threatened, he will bark, yap, jump or even bite. There’s a reason they are also known as ankle biters! Of course, such behavior earns them the reputation of hyper dogs.
He Can't Help It
The truth is that if a Chihuahua is hyper it may be thanks to his genes. For example, long-haired Chihuahuas tend to be more easygoing than short-haired Chihuahuas. If your Chihuahua is especially hyper, he might be letting you know he’s not feeling very well. It’s a good idea to discuss your Chihuahua’s hyperactivity with a veterinarian to rule out any health issues.
Keep Calm and Fetch the Ball
Ryan McVay/Lifesize/Getty Images
Your Chihuahua’s environment may be the reason he’s so hyper. True, they don’t require much exercise, but they are still active little dogs. People have a tendency to carry them around a lot, because they are so cute and small. But a couple of walks a day, even short ones, and some daily playtime set aside can go a long way in calming down your little pal.
It's Not Chi, It's You
Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
Maybe it’s you -- your Chihuahua might be mirroring the energy you're giving off. Your Chihuahua will pick up on your tone of voice, or whether you are nervous or tense about something completely unrelated to him, and act accordingly. If you are stressed, your Chihuahua might become hyper thinking that’s exactly how you want him to behave.
Get These Kids Away From Me
Just as Chihuahuas are known for being hyper, they are known for having short fuses when it comes to small children. Children should never run up to a Chihuahua to pet it, and they should certainly never tease it, because they do bite when they feel harassed.
It's Always the Little Ones
Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images
Chihuahuas like keeping it real and showing others they are top dog. They especially like proving their mettle against larger breed dogs. While it’s adorable to see a Chihuahua bossing around a sweet-tempered larger breed dog, it’s important for you to keep your tiny terror safe from instigating a fight he won’t win.
In Short
Chihuahuas are very loyal pets, and with some patience and work on your part, you can help lessen your Chihuahua’s hyperactivity.
References
Writer Bio
Vivian Gomez contributes to Retailing Today, the Daily Puppy, Paw Nation and other websites. She's covered the New York Comic Con for NonProductive since 2009 and writes about everything from responsible pet ownership to comic books to the manner in which smart phones are changing the way people shop. Gomez received her Bachelor of Arts in English literature from Pace University.